What do you do to help a kid who isn't getting playing time in high school sports?

Question

My daughter has gone to all the practices and all the games. She is a solid player (made all star team for 8 yrs. straight). But she has only played 10 minutes in 3 games (not even in her normal position, goalie, but they put her in forward!!!). What should I do?

Answer 1

If you have a valid reason why she should start, then talk to the coach. If that doesn't work out, talk with the Athletic Director. Your last option is to talk with the Principal. High school sports is more competitive then community leagues so you want to make sure she deserves to be starting. Politics comes into play a lot as well. So, if that is the name of the game, then join the Boosters Club or get more involved. The Squeeky Wheel Gets the Grease! Unfortuntely, coaches will not listen to kids if their parents are not involved.

Answer 2

Nothing. Your daughter needs to approach the coach to see what she can do to get more playing time. Maybe there is some aspect of her game that is lacking? Is the other goalie better (or older - a junior or senior player might get preference over a freshman or sophomore)? I know it's frustrating, as a parent (my son's are in baseball, so I know!) but you really can't involve yourself unless there is something blatantly unfair going on! Good luck!

Answer 3

high school sports are like that and the coaches dont care believe me but its worth a try to ask the coach for more play time
in middle school i played on the soccer team and we stunk bad were were down like 5 nothing and he did not care he just played the good people

Answer 4

Shelly is right
YOU should do nothing and mind your own business
Your child, at a high school age, should approach the coach - if she doesn't want to, it likely is not bothering her as much as it is you